Minnesota Knowledge Test Languages: 7 Options, Audio, Written Test Only

Minnesota DVS administers the Class D knowledge test in seven languages through computer terminals at all exam stations. The Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) provides these language options through computerized testing at all state exam stations.

What Languages Does Minnesota DVS Offer for the Permit Knowledge Test?

Minnesota DVS offers the Class D knowledge test in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Russian, Vietnamese, and Arabic at all state exam stations.

A Somali speaker in Minneapolis can select audio support, while a Spanish speaker in Rochester takes the full exam in their native language. These six languages cover the most common non-English speaking communities in Minnesota.

Request a Non-English Language at a Minnesota DVS Exam Station

Select your language when scheduling at drive.mn.gov or notify the clerk at check-in. An audio option is available for applicants who request it, ask at the counter before the test begins.

• All questions appear on-screen in your chosen language
• Audio assistance available via headphones for all languages
• Language selection cannot be changed once testing begins

Test the headphones before starting your exam at the Eagan station to avoid losing time due to faulty equipment. Report issues immediately to the proctor.

Can You Bring an Interpreter to Your Minnesota DVS Permit Appointment?

Personal interpreters are not allowed during the knowledge test. DVS provides all language support through the computerized testing system only.

• Schedule appointment at state exam station only - walk-ins not allowed
• Bring your own interpreter - DVS may not allow family members
• Interpreter may need to complete Certificate of Translation form
• Third-party deputy registrar offices don't allow personal interpreters

Schedule your interpreter appointment at the Arden Hills DVS office at least two weeks ahead. Otherwise, expect a 6-8 week wait for the next available slot.

For group interpreter scheduling and additional testing options, visit the group Class D knowledge testing page.

American Sign Language (ASL) requires an interpreter at state exam stations rather than computer-based testing. Call 651-284-1000 to schedule oral testing with interpreter assistance.

Review complete interpreter policies in the Proctor Test Training Guide before scheduling your appointment.

Are Minnesota DVS Permit Test Translations Accurate

DVS reviews translations regularly but quality varies. Applicants familiar with traffic law in English often find the English version clearer, particularly for road sign descriptions and specific statute language.

1. Paper dictionaries, electronic translators, and phones are prohibited
2. Friends and family cannot provide translation help during testing
3. Minnesota road signs remain in English regardless of test language

An applicant in Bloomington was failed for using a phone to look up a word. The no-electronics rule is enforced strictly during multilingual permit testing.

Do Non-English Minnesota Permit Test Takers Pay Different Fees?

No. All applicants pay $29.50 regardless of language chosen. Document requirements are identical, the language selection only affects the test interface, not any other part of the permit process.

• Documents: Complete Driver's License Application (Form PS2000) and bring two forms of ID
• Foreign documents: Foreign passport or consular ID accepted under Driver's License for All
• Study materials: Official Minnesota Driver's Manual available in multiple languages

Access multilingual resources and manuals through the Driver's License for All page, which provides materials in Hmong, Somali, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Russian.

Bring certified translation of foreign birth certificates if the original isn't in English. The St. Cloud deputy registrar has turned applicants away for missing this requirement.